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Lightning

Lightning strikes the United States about 25 million times a year. Although most lightning occurs in the summer, people can be struck at any time of year. Lightning kills 20 or more people in the United States each year, and hundreds more are severely injured, according to NOAA’s National Weather Service.

Summer is the most dangerous season for lightning. Most lightning fatalities occur in June, July and August.

Severe Thunderstorms

Florida has more thunderstorms than any other area of the United States. Thunderstorms affect relatively small areas when compared to hurricanes, but they occur much more frequently. The typical thunderstorm is 15 miles in diameter and lasts an average of 30 minutes. Nearly 1,800 thunderstorms are occurring at any moment around the world. 

Despite their small size, all thunderstorms are dangerous. Every thunderstorm produces lightning. Heavy rain from thunderstorms can lead to flash flooding. Strong winds (straight-line winds or downbursts), hail and tornadoes are also dangers associated with some thunderstorms.

Lightning flashes across the sky in a field during a storm.

 Outdoor Lightning Safety

  • NO PLACE outside is safe when thunderstorms are in the area.
  • If you hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike you.
  • When you hear thunder move to a safe shelter immediately: a substantial building with  electricity or plumbing or an enclosed, metal-topped vehicle with windows up.
  • Stay in safe shelter at least 30 minutes after you hear the last sound of thunder.

 Indoor Lightning Safety

  • Stay off corded phones, computers and other electrical equipment that put you in direct contact with electricity.
  • Avoid plumbing, including sinks, baths and faucets.
  • Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
  • Do not lie on concrete floors, and do not lean against concrete walls.

 Outdoor Risk Reduction Tips

If you are caught outside with no safe shelter anywhere nearby, the following actions may reduce your risk:

  • Immediately get off elevated areas such as hills, mountain ridges or peaks.
  • Never lie flat on the ground.
  • Never shelter under an isolated tree.
  • Never use a cliff or rocky overhang for shelter.
  • Immediately get out and away from ponds, lakes and other bodies of water.
  • Stay away from objects that conduct electricity (barbed wire fences, power lines, windmills, etc.)
     
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